November 21, 2020 – Saturday Early Afternoon
“Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.” ~Psalm 103:2
Have you ever forgotten anything important? That is probably a silly question to ask, since I am sure most, if not all, of us have forgotten something important at some point in our lives. Why do we forget? Especially the things that are significant…why do they slip our minds? I think if we are honest with ourselves it is because while we commit to not forget, we then forget to remember and remind ourselves of what it is that we are not going to forget; instead of keeping those things as top-of-mind, we allow other things to take their place. We trade what’s important for what is pressing and urgent and end up forgetting that which should not be forgotten.
In reality, we have all forgotten what is most important – probably multiple times already today. Let me explain: God has dealt well with all of us, whether you truly know Christ or not. God has shown those who know Him through Christ infinite mercy, grace, goodness, and abundant riches – everything we need for life and godliness; yet, even those who do not know Christ are shown God’s mercy in being given His breath to live and His goodness in being able to enjoy His creation, among a host of other ways. God has dealt well with us. However, how often throughout a day do we, as followers of Jesus, shun His goodness and choose our own wretched way? How many times do we falter and fail because we have forgotten His benefits? My beloved brothers and sisters, this ought not to be!
David instructed his soul to praise the LORD and to not forget His dealings (or benefits) with him; we should follow David’s example and teach our stubborn hearts too. You may know that I often say or write “keep your eyes on Jesus”; this is taken from Hebrews 12, but it is in essence telling your heart and my heart to not forget. By keeping our focus on Christ, we will remember; and we will find that in remembering His benefits and in resting in Him, we will be equipped to live the victorious life that the Father has intended us to live no matter what the circumstances.
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not His benefits! Keep your eyes on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith.